Mrs. Gladys (Lesiak) Battinelli

UTICA - Mrs. Gladys (Lesiak) Battinelli, age 91, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at MVHS at St. Elizabeth Medical Center with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on January 16, 1928, Gladys was the daughter of the late Charles and Sally (Wienglinska) Lesiak. She was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1946. On October 9, 1948 she married Jerry M. Battinelli with whom she shared 17 years and the blessing of two children. Jerry passed away on August 12, 1966. During her working days, Gladys was employed by Tector’s Shoe Store, a leading source of ladies’ high-style footwear. The majority of her years were spent working for the United States Federal Census Bureau, as a supervisor, a job that afforded her the opportunity to travel the country and meet many wonderful people while carrying out her responsibilities. She retired at the age of 71. As a mom and matriarch, Gladys was kind, loving, wise, and honest. She was a caretaker and a food maker, whether for family or friends, and the door to her home was always open. She was admired by her children, helped raise her granddaughter, and was active in her granddaughter’s life. Her great-grandson Nicolas,was the “light of her life”. All these generations were lucky and blessed that the Lord gave Gladys the longevity to be with them as long as she was. A strong-minded woman, Gladys stood her ground and rarely compromised. She had a beautiful smile and a proud style, and she will be remembered for her stunning white hair. Gladys engaged in many pastimes and leisure pursuits. As a member of the Deerfield Senior Center, she socialized and participated in the activities of the organization. She was a Bingo-holic and a fan of the slot machines. Turning Stone Casino could be called her second home, and she was capable of driving there in any weather condition, causing her family to fret until she got home safely! She became acquainted with the game of baseball by attending her great-grandson’s area league games. The sport became her passion, and the New York Yankees were her team. Her favorite players were shortstop for the New York Yankees, Sir “Didi” Gregorius and recently first baseman Luke Voit. She had their pictures by her bed and she rarely missed a game. She enjoyed the company of her family cats, Simba, Sassy, Feisty, and JoJo. Gladys was graced with great faith in God and she prayed and petitioned for others. Whenever you left her home after a visit, she would bless you with love and peace. Gladys is survived by her son, Jerry Battinelli, Jr. who resides in California; daughter, Gail Battinelli; granddaughter, Christy A. Battinelli; and her beloved great-grandson, Nicolas “Nic” Battinelli. She also leaves her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, her friend Paula; and her recent roommate Helen, who watched over her. Gladys was fondly known as “grandma” to many of Nic’s friends, who she “treated and fed” as her own. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Stella and George Kelly, Alice Cifu, and Emily and Richard Goralyczyk; and her brothers and sister-in-law, Frank Wadowski, and Chuck and Evelyn Wadowski. The family extends their gratitude to the staff of MVHS at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, ICU (3008), especially Jackie and Carolyn who provided comfort and compassion with additional empathy not only to Gladys but also her family. The family will honor and commemorate her life at a private time.

Mrs. Gladys (Lesiak) Battinelli

January 16, 1928 - August 21, 2019